S&W Mod 12 S/N question

[ranger7]

Just picked up the S&W Mod 12 that I asked about in a previous thread (now closed.) The only cosmetic deficiency I can find is some lightening of the bluing on the trigger guard and near it on the grip. All the mechanical checkout seems fine. It seems to have had very little use.

S/N is - C 43XXXX on the butt. Under the stocks (on the frame) and inside the crane (or yoke) is a different number - 5XXXX. I could imagine the crane having a different S/N (if it was replaced) but the numbers under the stock and on the bottom of the frame (on the butt) are on the same physical part.

So what is the second set of number that is different from the prominent one on the butt?

Alan

 

[Old Fuff]

The second set of numbers are "assembly numbers" put there to insure that fitted parts get back into the right revolver during the manufacturing process. The serial number indicates it was made during 1960.

 

[Gordon]

I was issued a Mod 12 with 2" barrel in 1970 for Govt. under cover work and never liked it as it was to big in the cheap issue black shoulder holster to conceal. I had to qualify with 130 grain issue ball every 6mo. on the old Army pistol course at Ft. Meade . But I just began to think about the thing again and am getting a hankering for an old one. Did they ever make it in nickle finish?

 

[Kahr carrier]

Yes they made Model 12s in Nickel finish . S&W discontinued them in 1986.

 

[ranger7]

What do you feel is a reasonable price for a blued Mod 12 in 90+% condition? (No box or book.)

Mine was on consignment sale at my dealers originally for $250. About 6 weeks ago the gun's owner dropped it to $220. I just offered $200 and got it. (Another customer was in the store when I bought it. He said he had been looking at it for a while too and probably would have taken it if he had thought to offer a lower bid like I did.) It looks really clean, just a little lightening of the bluing around the trigger guard. Very little wear or signs of use on the less visible parts around the cylinder, etc.. Sure wasn't shot much.

I'm really anxious to see how it shoots. Maybe tomoorow... if I can get to the range in my Jeep. (I have mostly semi-autos. At least with this I don't have to hunt brass in the snow.)

Alan

 

[Kahr carrier]

Ranger 7 You did good getting it for $200 in the Prk usually any used S&W snubbie like a Model 10-12 or 36 blue would run you $300-up. Happy shooting post a range report if you have time.